Japanese Archery

(KYUDO & YABUSAME)

 Kyudo – The Way of The Bow
Kyujutsu – Bow Technique
Is thought of as one of as the purest of all Martial ways.
Was used for hunting, war, court ceremonies, games &
contests of skill.
 Modern Kyudo
A method of spiritual, physical and moral development.
Said to be synonymous with the pursuit of truth, goodness
& beauty.
 TRUTH

Is manifested in shooting that is pure and right-minded,

where the three elements of attitude, movement, and
technique unite in a state of perfect harmony.

A true shot in Kyudo is not just one that hits the center of
the target, but one where the arrow can be said to exist in
the target before its release.
 GOODNESS

Encompasses qualities as courtesy, compassion, morality,

and non-aggression.

It is shown by displaying proper attitude and behaviour in

all situations. A good Kyudo archer is a person who
maintains his or her composure and grace even in times of
great stress or conflict.
 BEAUTY

Enhances life and stimulates the spirit.

Truth and goodness, themselves, are considered beautiful.

Beauty can also be found in the exquisite grace and artistry of

the Japanese bow and the elegance of the traditional archer's
attire. It is also present in the refined etiquette that surrounds the
Kyudo ceremony. Etiquette, which is simply common courtesy
and respect for others, is an essential element of Kyudo practice.
 THE BOW

Usually made of laminated wood and bamboo, and the

arrow is a bamboo shaft with three feathers and an
arrowhead.

The shooting range is from 28 meters to over 60 meters,

with a different sized target for each range.
 YABUSAME

It is the traditional art of shooting from horseback.

Its performance is held during festivals of many Shinto
shrines. Here, the archer tries to shoot as many wooden
targets as possible (set up along a course in the shrine
precincts ) while riding a galloping horse.
 MATCHES

Short Distance : 28m Range. Target Diameter is 36cm.

Mostly held indoors.

Long Distance: 60m Range. Target Diameter is 100cm.

Mainly held outdoors.
THE END.